Background
For nearly two decades, the Sportsmen’s Alliance (SA) has fought to return wolf management to state experts, advocating for a system based on science rather than political ideology. In June 2023, in partnership with Michigan and Wisconsin bear hunter associations, we filed two strategic petitions with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS). The first called for the recognition and delisting of the Western Great Lakes (WGL) wolf population, which has exceeded recovery goals for years. The second petition proposed downlisting West Coast wolves to “threatened” status, creating a legal blueprint to navigate the complex litigation traps often set by animal extremist groups.
Despite clear statutory requirements, the FWS stalled. They ignored the 90-day preliminary finding deadline, prompting us to file a Notice of Intent to Sue in November 2023. When the agency subsequently missed the one-year determination deadline, we filed another notice in July 2024. Finally, the Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation officially filed suit against the FWS in the Western District of Michigan on September 9, 2024, to compel a decision.
Impact to Hunters
The federal government’s refusal to delist recovered wolf populations is not just a procedural failure; it is a direct threat to our outdoor heritage. As highlighted in our “Save Our Wildlife” campaign, animal rights extremists have effectively hijacked federal law to push a dangerous ideology that ignores biological reality.
When wolf populations go unchecked due to bureaucratic paralysis, state agencies lose the ability to manage their own ecosystems. This results in unbalanced predator-prey dynamics that threaten ungulate herds—deer, elk, and moose—which are the backbone of American hunting. Continued federal protections for species that have long since recovered strips hunters of opportunities and undermines the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation.
Where We Stand Now
On January 7, 2025, the Biden administration delivered a “parting shot” to sportsmen, issuing a “not-warranted” finding that denied our petitions. In a move we view as politically motivated smoke and mirrors, the FWS merged our distinct petitions and used the status of West Coast wolves to justify maintaining federal protections for the fully recovered Great Lakes population.
However, this setback does not mark the end of our efforts. We have proven we will hold agencies accountable in court, and we are currently assessing our next legal steps to challenge this denial.
Help Us Fight for You
Your tax-deductible donation to the Sportsmen’s Legal Defense Fund directly supports our legal fights in courtrooms nationwide. The Sportsmen’s Legal Defense Fund was established to represent sportsmen in lawsuits that affect your ability to hunt, fish, trap and own firearms. Its funding ensures the sportsman’s voice is heard above the rhetoric of anti-hunting groups.
Join the fight for your hunting and fishing future by donating to the Sportsmen’s Legal Defense Fund today!
